George Washington Birthplace National Monument | FISHING

Fishing at Popes Creek Picnic Area, George Washington Birthplace National Monument

Fishing at Popes Creek Picnic Area, George Washington Birthplace National Monument

Fishing is allowed from two locations at the George Washington Birthplace National Monument. The most popular is Popes Creek Picnic Area. There is not a lot of room due to much of the shoreline being overgrown, but if you can find a spot, you can fish.

A second location is the Potomac River Beach at the end of Bridges Creek Road. During my visit I did not see nearly as many fishermen here as at the picnic area. Unfortunately, I do not fish, so I cannot offer any advice as to which is the best spot, other than to follow the crowd.

Both locations are typically open Wednesdays through Sundays from 9 AM to 5 PM year-round, except for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day when the entire park is closed. Keep in mind that times and days can always change. For the latest schedule, be sure to visit the National Park Service’s official Operating Hours and Seasons web page for the park.

No special permits or licenses are needed from the National Park Service. However, to fish at the Potomac River beach, those 16 and older must have one of the following: Potomac River Fisheries Sport Fishing licenseVirginia Saltwater Recreational Fishing LicenseMaryland Chesapeake Bay & Coastal Sport Fishingor a reciprocal Maryland saltwater license. To fish at the Popes Creek Picnic Area, those 16 and older must have one of the following: Virginia Freshwater fishing license,  Potomac River Fisheries Sport Fishing license, Virginia Saltwater Recreational Fishing License, or Maryland Chesapeake Bay & Coastal Sport Fishing License. Virginia fishing laws apply.

For more information, see the National Park Service’s Fishing web page for George Washington Birthplace National Monument.

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Last updated on January 7, 2025
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